RJ Harvey Earns High Praise From Broncos Teammates After Historic Rookie Performance

The Denver Broncos’ 44-24 rout of the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday wasn’t just a statement win, it was a coming out party for their rookie class, headlined by running back RJ Harvey’s three-touchdown breakout performance. 

As DenverBroncos.com noted, the Central Florida product became the first Broncos rookie since Clinton Portis in 2002 to score three times in a single game, delivering both on the ground and through the air.

“He’s a huge part of what we’re doing offensively,” tackle Mike McGlinchey said. “You knew that was coming. It was a huge breakout game for him.”

Harvey sparked Denver’s offense early with a 40-yard touchdown run, the team’s longest rushing score since 2021.  

He finished with 46 rushing yards on seven carries (6.6 yards per carry), two rushing touchdowns, and one receiving score on a third-down play that was specifically drawn up for him. 

Head coach Sean Payton praised the entire rookie class: 

“A lot of production from the rookie class,” Payton said. “It’s great to see them moving, getting the experience.”

Quarterback Bo Nix was quick to highlight the chemistry developing among the young players: 

“Those guys are starting to find a good rhythm, understanding more and more and knowing more of what they can do. I’m proud of them. I’m proud of the work they put in. They are practicing hard, they show up to work, they are great teammates, great team players in the locker room, very humble guys and just want to make the next play.”  

Harvey Emerging as a Key Piece in Denver’s Future

RJ Harvey’s breakout against Dallas may be just the beginning of something bigger in Denver. 

His blend of speed, vision, and toughness has already drawn comparisons to some of Sean Payton’s most dynamic running backs from his New Orleans days. 

Harvey’s ability to find creases, break tackles, and contribute in the passing game gives the Broncos a versatile weapon who can thrive in multiple roles.

Payton has shown increasing trust in Harvey as the season has progressed, incorporating more designed touches and creative packages to leverage his explosiveness

Just today, Payton put Harvey in the wildcat formation and designed a touchdown run for him. 

The rookie running back racked up 92 total yards and three touchdowns on just 10 touches, averaging 9.2 yards per touch.

His explosive 40-yard run put the Broncos on the board and ignited the Broncos offense to a 44-point performance. 

Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi mentioned just last week that Harvey’s “football IQ jumps out on film,” and that Denver plans to “keep expanding what he’s asked to do.” 

Offseason Buzz Becomes Reality

Those inside the Broncos’ facility have been high on Harvey since the day he arrived.

During spring workouts, Payton described him as “ahead of schedule” and praised his burst and vision during inside-zone installs. 

Running backs coach Declan Doyle noted that Harvey “sees the field like a veteran,” and that his ability to read backside pursuit was “as natural as anyone we’ve coached.” 

Veteran teammates noticed early too. J.K. Dobbins, who stars in front of Harvey as the Broncos RB1, said during camp that Harvey “has all the tools, vision, patience, and that extra gear when the crease opens.”

That potential has now translated into production.

He ranks top three among rookie running backs in yards per touch and is slowly getting more and more opportunity on the field each week. 

As Payton put it recently, “He’s not just learning the system,  he’s starting to drive it.”

Dobbins continues to produce and be very effective as the starter. For as long as he is healthy, he will probably continue to be the lead back. 

However, with Harvey playing this well, it will be very hard to keep him off the field and his snap count should only continue to increase.

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